Lemon Pepper Seasoning is a zesty, vibrant blend that adds a bold citrusy kick and peppery heat to any dish.
It’s perfect for seasoning chicken, fish, vegetables, pasta, or even popcorn! Unlike store-bought blends, this homemade version is free of additives and lets you control the salt content.
Sprinkle it on before cooking or use it as a finishing touch, this versatile seasoning is a must-have in your pantry.
Lemon Pepper Seasoning Recipe
Equipment
- Microplane or fine grater for zesting lemons
- Baking sheet or dehydrator optional, for drying lemon zest
- Mixing bowl
- Spice grinder, food processor, or mortar and pestle
- Airtight spice jar or container
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp dried lemon zest from about 4 lemons
- 2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp coarse sea salt optional or to taste
- 1 tsp onion powder optional
- garlic powder optional
Instructions
- Zest the Lemons: Use a microplane or fine grater to zest 4 lemons. Avoid the white pith to prevent bitterness.
- Dry the Zest:1 (Quick Method): Spread the zest on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it dry at room temperature for 2–3 hours or overnight.2 (Oven): Dry in the oven at the lowest heat (170°F/75°C or lower) for 20–30 minutes, checking frequently to prevent burning.3 (Dehydrator): Dry using a dehydrator for about 1–2 hours at 95°F/35°C.
- Grind Ingredients: In a spice grinder or with a mortar and pestle, combine dried lemon zest, black pepper, salt (if using), and optional garlic and onion powder. Grind to your preferred texture—coarse or fine.Store: Transfer to an airtight jar. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
Video
Notes
- For a salt-free version, simply omit the sea salt.
- Use fresh, organic lemons for the most vibrant flavor and to avoid wax coatings.
- Adjust the pepper-to-lemon ratio to suit your taste—more pepper for heat, more zest for brightness.
- Double the batch to keep a larger stash on hand for meal prep or gifting.
| Nutrient | Amount (per tsp / ~2g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 6 |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Protein | 0.1g |
| Fat | 0.1g |
| Serving Size | ~2g |
| Sodium | 97mg (varies with salt use) |
| Potassium | 9mg |
| Fiber | 0.3g |
| Sugar | 0.1g |
| Vitamin A (IU) | 4 IU |
| Vitamin C | 2mg |
| Calcium | 6mg |
| Iron | 0.1mg |
What is the Best Way to Store?
To keep your homemade lemon pepper seasoning fresh and flavorful, proper storage is key. Once the blend is fully dried and mixed, transfer it to an airtight container—preferably a glass spice jar with a tightly sealing lid.
Mason jars, recycled spice jars, or small airtight tins all work great. Be sure the container is completely dry before filling it to avoid any moisture, which can cause clumping or mold over time.
Store the seasoning in a cool, dark place such as a pantry, spice drawer, or cupboard away from direct sunlight, heat, or humidity. When stored properly, your lemon pepper seasoning can maintain its bold flavor and aroma for up to 6 months.
For best results, always use a clean, dry spoon when scooping it out, and avoid shaking it over steaming pots to prevent moisture from entering the jar. Label the jar with the date you made it so you can keep track of freshness!
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Summary
Making your DIY Lemon Pepper Seasoning is not only simple and cost-effective, but it also gives you full control over the flavor and ingredients—no fillers, no preservatives, just pure zesty goodness.
With just a few pantry staples and a bit of zest, you’ll have a versatile seasoning that’s fresher and more flavorful than anything off the shelf. Once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought!
